tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26703368518363667502011-11-22T05:58:41.735-05:00Alannoreply@blogger.comBlogger1061100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-22140316985693916562011-06-27T08:50:00.000-04:002011-06-27T08:50:41.782-04:00

Apparently it's not obvious. But I've merged my old blogs into one entity : Oh! That British Bloke ... So, music, hifi or cycling ... it's all there ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-17261500358438540002010-06-09T07:14:00.004-04:002010-07-10T09:02:09.866-04:00

A while ago I separated my cycling from my Life And The Universe blog. This proved a little ambitious and Life And The Universe suffered. So having found out how to combine the blogs I've put everything together under one banner; Oh! That British Bloke ... Everything that was on either VeloStage or PhonoStage is now here. They've been consigned to posterity ... One or two transparent graphics

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-48014178693827437542010-06-08T21:40:00.001-04:002010-06-09T06:40:14.224-04:00

Here it is ... this evening's Grind. Lovely weather ... a bit breezy to begin with, but otherwise very nice. Good company, good ride ... thanks, Diane, as ever.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-10954674526188512602010-06-07T06:22:00.000-04:002010-06-07T06:22:19.482-04:00

This is becoming a regular ride, but no matter, it's pretty, it's quiet and uses charming back-roads. This ride did become a bit of a yomp though. It was very hot. The car said 36C/97F when we got back to Etra Lake and I drank over 100fl.oz of liquid in four hours ... and that was not enough ... anyway ... Thanks to Gary ... as usual ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-70639401250912218952010-06-04T09:28:00.008-04:002010-06-05T08:29:29.311-04:00

There is nothing as likely to bring a customer back to the bike store as a problem with their bicycle gears. Most modern bicycles use variations of a design called the dérailleur; literally, the de-railer, a device which forces the chain from one cog to the next in a very unsophisticated and crude manner. In engineering terms, it really shouldn't work ... but it does. Modern dérailleurs use all

Alannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-40669544474403679522010-06-01T07:04:00.000-04:002010-06-01T07:04:12.449-04:00

This Sunday's outing from Etra Lake to Clarksburg, NJ. Beautiful day ... nice ride ... thanks to all particpants. Bike route 516547 - powered by Bikemap  Temporarily back to bikemap.net. ridewithgps.com is giving me problems at the moment. Besides, it's not possible to edit the route using ridewithgps.com, so I used bikemap.net to erase my little excursion up Windsor Road ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-32602854438554560192010-05-29T08:10:00.000-04:002010-05-29T08:10:42.697-04:00

On Saturday, June 19, I will be taking part in the annual Tour de Cure, a ride in support of diabetes research, from Brielle Park on the Jersey Shore. This will be my first ever Century ride, that is one hundred miles. At the moment the route is unknown, but given it's on the shore hills won't be too much of a consideration, although headwinds might be. I'm in a team; Old Cranks, which currently

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-59391666998818354422010-05-26T06:37:00.003-04:002010-05-26T06:39:09.442-04:00

A slightly larger than average group met up on the best Tuesday evening of the year so far, weather wise. Two major hills; Hollow Road/Long Hill Road, most of Lindberg from the Wertsberg Road and a final climb over Grandview with its fast descent as a reward. I'm using RideWithGPS.com for most of my stuff now. It seems to be getting more reliable. I haven't figured out how to consistently get

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-57479838836671596742010-05-24T07:40:00.008-04:002010-05-24T07:52:57.450-04:00

Well, the weather conspired to cancel the regular Sunday ride from Etra Lake, NJ. And, of course, once Gary made the decision the day did brighten up but only a bit. The forecast is good for Tuesday's Griggstown Grinder though, so let's hope ... Attending the Ride of Silence did get me thinking ... I'm not so sure I'm in tune with it. I think the format has a number of problems and contradictions

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-28686549625786227402010-05-20T08:10:00.001-04:002010-05-20T23:57:17.410-04:00

This is the route of this year's Ride Of Silence : This set me thinking ... I'm not sure this is the right way to commemorate or celebrate killed and injured cyclists ... more later ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-77123733223003571802010-05-17T09:27:00.000-04:002010-05-17T09:27:11.363-04:00

Heard of road racing? You know, the Tour de France, the Paris-Roubaix, Tour de Somerville? Cyclo-cross? Track? Sprint ... Madison ... Keirin? Okay it's getting weirder now, but these are all forms of cycling competition well established in the USA. I'm going to look at some other cycling sports found outside the Fifty One including Indoor Artistic Cycling, CycleBall, Grasstrack and Bicycle Polo.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-34328641023436635662010-05-16T15:03:00.000-04:002010-05-16T15:03:26.477-04:00

Great ride from Etra Lake this morning, guided with increasing aplomb, by Gary - thanks ... It started very cool, well, to be honest, cold and it took until the rest stop at Battleview Orchards for the sky to clear and the day to start warming up, although it was still pretty cool on our return. Anyway, try the blueberry strudel ... very nice ... ridewithgps.com: bikemap.net: Bike route 494079

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-13843886144772594842010-05-12T07:09:00.000-04:002010-05-12T07:09:25.259-04:00

First "official" GGrinder of the season. We beat the rain and Spring Hill Road has been resurfaced, so it was good. Thanks to Diane for leading ...  PS: Watch for gravel on rh bend on Springhill Road just before mile9. ridewithgps.com: bikemap.net: Bike route 487427 - powered by Bikemap 

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-51311444456032562012010-05-09T07:03:00.016-04:002010-05-09T11:40:36.617-04:00

I'm not sure if live coverage of the Giro d'Italia is available on US TV, but you can watch it on the Universal Sports website. Nice win in the prologue for Bradley Wiggins ... disappointment for David Millar ... but nice to see a GB rider and a GB team leading a major tour. You can also try the official and rather elegant website for the Giro here. The site offers live video, but it may be 

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-50564004840583451122010-05-08T07:22:00.000-04:002010-05-08T07:22:40.758-04:00

Seems to be working well again now, so compare: And BikeMap.com: Bike route 477211 - powered by Bikemap 

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-9785885546879325102010-05-07T09:28:00.001-04:002010-05-07T21:21:07.394-04:00

RideWithGPS.com is an interesting idea, but seems to be having problems. It had been having problems dealing with GPS data but now seems to be down completely. Consequently, there are some holes in previous VeloStage articles. I hope it's back soon ... Okay ... back up ... now ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-32789877339430998002010-05-05T06:54:00.000-04:002010-05-05T06:54:42.246-04:00

A few of us looked out the window after the nasty squall around 4.30pm and saw a wedge of blue sky head ing our way ... so we met up, a week ahead of the official start of the PFW Griggstown Grinder. Same time ... same place ... Steve said he had a 21mile route in mind, so we let him drag us into the breeze for a loop which turned out to be 21.12 miles. Good guess Steve! Bike route 477211 -

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-9056028801041894792010-05-04T15:57:00.000-04:002010-05-04T15:57:59.313-04:00

I'm still getting to grips with ridewithgps.com. It has potential, and today seems to be behaving quite well. Try this: Click on the map to go to the website; try scanning your mouse across the profile and watch progress around the map; then run your cursor close to the route and progress is mirrored on the profile ... at least that's how it works for me.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-50613178594673306692010-05-03T08:10:00.002-04:002010-05-03T08:19:43.596-04:00

Just logged the weekend's ride from Etra Lake to New Egypt, NJ. Thanks to Gary for leading ... looking forwards to next weekend. Bike route 473784 - powered by Bikemap  I'm sticking with BikeMap.net for the moment. RideWithGPS.com is promising, but currently seems rather slow. When I checked this link it was having trouble. The site does a lot of processing of uploaded GPS files, so maybe it's

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-12345288117140188132010-04-26T08:15:00.009-04:002010-04-26T09:11:43.552-04:00

Just found this GPS mapping site : ridewithgps.com. It seems to be a step up from bikemap.net. So far I like: Detailed route profile - move cursor along profile Cue sheet printing Range of export options Simple embedding in blog facility Take a look ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-59926215538542853892010-04-14T09:01:00.003-04:002010-04-15T07:09:28.243-04:00

The Ride of Silence is a worldwide event for cyclists to mark and draw attention to fellow riders who have been killed or injured on public roads. As the RoS website states: On May 19, 2010, at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. Cyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-15800546035104761432010-04-14T08:30:00.004-04:002010-04-26T09:10:39.708-04:00

Thanks to Diane and Steve. See details here ... Bike route 383599 - powered by Bikemap *Unfortunately rained off :-( watch for new date ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-453873963173260372010-04-11T16:59:00.003-04:002010-04-12T11:01:34.231-04:00

It was the regular Sunday "B" ride out of Cranbury, NJ, this time led by Mark Hecht. If I was hoping it might be rather less challenging than last week's ride, then I was truly mistaken. However, we did survive, so I spent Sunday afternoon feeling rather smug ... but those last few miles against a blustery wind from the west were very hard!!! Bike route 444571 - powered by Bikemap  Thanks to

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-70789558331192304722010-04-10T08:16:00.003-04:002010-04-10T08:19:09.444-04:00

Well, the year has certainly taken off ... plenty of people wanting nice bikes ... and even more digging their old bikes from the back of the garage and needing a bit of a tune-up. So your local bike store/shop - LBS - is going to be BUSY. Currently, the store where I help out is backed up over a week for repairs and tune-ups. Didn't I tell you before? Get your bike in for service in plenty of

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-77558020870480748072010-04-04T13:36:00.000-04:002010-04-04T13:36:32.988-04:00

This was my first group ride of the year and I survived. Advertised as a "B" ride, it approached "B+", but everyone was riding well, even if at their upper limits. Well done all, and thanks to Ken Leon for leading a very pleasant, if sometimes challenging ride in excellent weather. Bike route 434346 - powered by Bikemap 

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-53480865672034605212010-03-28T13:35:00.003-04:002010-03-28T13:46:13.722-04:00

Today saw a full programme of racing on a course dominated by the climb on Grandview Road. Okay ... so I had intended to ride over and spectate for an hour or two, but impending showers and a cold wind meant I chickened out and drove over to the crest of Grandview and stood shivering for an hour or so watching some really interesting racing from one of the women's races. This particular race was

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-71058473533634399702010-03-25T06:51:00.000-04:002010-03-25T06:51:51.658-04:00

Last weekend saw a big improvement in the weather from the previous one. So it was out on the road again, this time on a route pretty close to the one below. After a break at Peacock's Country Store I came off the Wertsville Road and climbed up to Rileyville and back along Ridge Road to Lindberg. Bike route 417272 - powered by Bikemap No improvement in the roads though, with added branches and

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-79442492630759331232010-03-16T09:19:00.000-04:002010-03-16T09:19:35.815-04:00

So this weekend saw 6" of rain in one day and maybe a couple of inches of water in our cellar when the electricity failed - for 24+ hours - before I could lash up the generator to the sump pump. It would be nice if this weekend could make up for it and I could get back out on the bike.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-62774478356467194382010-03-07T16:14:00.004-05:002010-03-07T17:27:53.393-05:00

Well, the nice weather is here, so there's really no excuse. What better than a season opener than a nice ride to Lambertville, NJ, on the Delaware? Only 40 miles there and back, but hilly miles, so they really count. Bike route 316479 - powered by Bikemap  Everything worked well and smoothly and suitable clothing kept me warm, but not too toasty. As I crossed Route 31 I was surprised to

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-26151779945592544552010-03-05T08:23:00.002-05:002010-03-05T08:26:33.211-05:00

This is an interesting blog from a cycling, commuting, 4th cat vet lawyer in the UK; The Cycling Lawyer. Each month, Martin Porter writes a digest of court cases and, unfortunately, inquests, associated with cycling and cyclists.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-72484131464392382122010-03-04T09:12:00.002-05:002010-03-04T09:28:48.974-05:00

It's that time of year ... The first nice cycling weekend is looming at last. It's Thursday and the first batch of customers who need their bike serviced, repaired and upgraded will be in today with their bike which needs to be done by tomorrow because they have a Double Century or are starting their ride across America this weekend and besides they're the bike shop owner's best friend, etc.,

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-37170530435170181312010-03-03T09:39:00.000-05:002010-03-03T09:39:58.202-05:00

An interview with Giant Bicycles CEO Tony Lo about the company's history and future with carbon bicycle frames ... here ... Thanks to bicycling.com.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-41669782195461300702010-03-01T08:49:00.000-05:002010-03-01T08:49:46.199-05:00

For me, part of the pleasure of cycling is the tinkering and maintenance of my bikes. Nothing helps more than having the bike held securely and at a comfortable height so that adjustments are more easily carried out. At home I use a Feedback Sports Mechanics stand. The image of the stand shows it in its previous incarnation as an Ultimate Sports stand. I'm not certain what happened, but other

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-55829575493517145232010-02-28T17:27:00.006-05:002010-02-28T17:33:55.127-05:00

This year's Philadelphia International is joined by a new feature, the Philadelphia Bicycle Show. The Phila International is the US's top ranked one day event, rated as "UCI Hors Category". Top riders from 20 nations around the world will contest the event in front of up to 350,000 spectators. The Bicycle Show is a new event and at the moment details are being finalised. It would be nice if

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-44404646535301919122010-02-28T14:11:00.005-05:002010-03-01T08:51:48.982-05:00

My best bike - the Giant OCR2 - has been superseded by a couple of more up-to-date models, but for me it remains a very competent and comfortable bike. So it will remain my No:1 mount for a while yet. However, that doesn't mean I can't take the opportunity to fine-tune various components. This season the big change is/are (?) the handlebars which have been replaced with Easton EC90 Aero Road

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-73597784538334414312010-02-26T18:22:00.001-05:002010-02-26T18:25:17.501-05:00

Cold hands? Me too ... or rather, not too cold. Lands' End (sic.) silk glove liners work for me ... try them. They do work. Available here.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-72105129858917485762010-02-25T11:33:00.001-05:002010-03-01T08:52:23.862-05:00

So, we crossed the state line into New Hope, PA and spent an evening of roller racing at the Triumph Brewery. It wasn't quite Rollapaluza, but roller racing here is starting to get a buzz. And it also helped support The Young Survival Coalition, a breast cancer charity for women under 40. Special thanks to the women competitors who, as you can see, entered into the spirit of the event. It also

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-53293661827460713262010-02-18T09:04:00.004-05:002010-02-18T09:11:13.125-05:00

What better way for a cyclist to spend a cold winter evening than sprinting on top of a set of rollers to win a very small prize?Where: Triumph Brewery, New Hope, PAWhen: 24 February, 2010 from early evening.There is a small cover charge in support of a local charity.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-59742030237774672762010-02-10T11:05:00.004-05:002010-02-10T11:31:31.891-05:00

Well, my old mountain bike has been collecting dust in the garage for a long time now, so it's been consigned to Craigslist.So I've been looking for a bike which I can use as a bit of a hack, mudguards, racks, ride in the rain, etc, and use when James is over here in the US.The Salsa Vaya seems to fit the bill and I hope to take delivery of one shortly.Meanwhile, my favourite Giant OCR C2 is due

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-57491139818209136822010-01-16T11:20:00.005-05:002010-01-16T11:34:52.751-05:00

.. And the grass is almost riz ... So it's time to get your bike down to your favourite local bike shop - LBS - for its start the season service.Please, don't be that person who turns up on the first sunny/warm day in March and demands their bike be ready for their first Double Century which "is tomorrow ..."No. Get your bicycle serviced in plenty of time so that mechanics can apply a little more

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-4618740878335997852009-12-23T07:15:00.003-05:002009-12-25T12:44:38.051-05:00

Still blogging on Phonostage ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-88997433061603658002009-12-14T17:25:00.002-05:002009-12-14T17:27:04.509-05:00

It's okay ... I'm coming back ... Back with the bike stuff soon.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-25912571631213457202009-10-05T09:41:00.004-04:002009-10-05T09:53:43.534-04:00

A cyclist's nightmare; being involved in a serious incident and no-one knowing who you are ...Well, RoadID is a bracelet which contains basic contact information which can be used in an emergency. There are more sophisticated options which convey more detailed medical details, if, for example, you're diabetic or have another health issue, but paramedic/casualty department friends of mine tell me

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-23052985414191027002009-10-04T19:20:00.007-04:002009-10-04T19:45:59.785-04:00

Nice PFW ride this morning from Kingston, NJ.The early morning was misty, but promising, and we weren't let down as it metamorphosed into a very nice day.I certainly felt a lot better than my last Sunday ride. I could have done it all again ... yes ... really!!!Basic stats:Distance : 43.6 miles / 70.2kmClimb : 1,607ft / 409mThanks to John - ride leader.Bike route 330312 - powered by Bikemap PS:

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-54658239259018072009-09-24T08:12:00.007-04:002009-09-25T07:27:38.761-04:00

Fed up with tying up all those straps on your bicycle car rack? Don't want/have a tow hitch/bar?Then this, admittedly, rather expensive as trunk/boot racks go, is the one for you.The Saris Bones RS Car Rack uses two steel straps to attach the rack to the car. These are tensioned by two locking ratchet devices and ensure that the rack is very securely indeed without all those webbing straps

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-50212331792468052952009-09-22T18:42:00.007-04:002009-10-04T19:39:48.416-04:00

I was just looking for as many hills as I could get in 20 miles. Close to 1000ft / 300m of climbing.So I rode this route this afternoon:Bike route 321352 - powered by Bikemap If you go to the bikemap.net and run your cursor over the route profile a marker runs over the route. It's a lollipop pattern so it's not immediately obvious what the course is.I'm going to do this once a week for as long as

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-39090978410205616602009-09-22T14:16:00.005-04:002009-09-22T14:23:17.408-04:00

C'mon ... don't tell me you haven't daydreamed this on some long, long climb.Incidently, can anyone tell me why it isn't the Tour du France?Thanks to Steve Rowley and Gabriel Romeau ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-7478157769333545962009-09-20T10:26:00.003-04:002009-09-20T10:38:38.778-04:00

From the Velodrome of Hillsborough website:The Velodrome at Hillsborough is a proposal to bring the great sport of track cycling to the greatest township in New Jersey. The former GSA Depot, a 370 acre tract of land in Hillsborough, Somerset County, New Jersey is destined to become a municipal and county park. Placing a Velodrome in the park would enhance the status of the county, the township,

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-56917461035899244872009-09-16T07:06:00.008-04:002009-09-16T07:49:15.681-04:00

One of the biggest steps any new, serious bike rider makes is wearing spandex/lycra cycling shorts which look okay so long as you stay on the bike, but are more challenging for most of us off the bike.Convincing riders to take the next step, bib shorts, is even more difficult. But bib shorts are in another league of comfort and support and well worth the extra expense, and a small amount of

Alannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-17828816182963450782009-09-14T08:59:00.004-04:002009-09-14T09:39:41.893-04:00

Here is a new - for me - GPS mapping website: bikemap.net.I'm currently using MapMyRide.com with some success, but some of the more practical aspects of the site are more difficult, particularly editing routes ... and having to pay for printouts is particularly irksome, especially when you've paid hundreds of bucks for a Garmin and another hundred for a US street map. In addition, MapMyRide

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-9028513091349023712009-09-13T19:24:00.006-04:002009-09-13T20:44:59.164-04:00

A fairly hilly 51 miles this one. Thanks to Ken Leon, ride leader, and Steve Rowley who dragged me into the wind ... thanks again.<a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nj/princeton/274125286168665526">PFW20090913Princeton-Neshanic<

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-14074030881323299262009-09-12T07:36:00.008-04:002009-09-12T09:07:31.420-04:00

Just caught sight of two interesting bike lights from Princeton Tec which seem to take bicycle lighting to the next step.The Swerve: the latest super-bright LEDs have taken rear lights into new realms of brilliance and conspicuity. The Swerve has two red 0.5w LEDs, one beamed through a diffuser to enable a wide spread of light and the other an intense focused beam. One of the switched modes

Alannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-25570129267508811362009-09-11T07:54:00.007-04:002009-09-11T08:44:17.800-04:00

Returning to VeloStage after a few days away in Hawai'i trekking across lava fields and standing on the top of volcanoes ...Here are a couple of cycling related links I like:copenhagencyclechic: the sartorialist on two wheels - The Guardian. Ordinary people doing ordinary things; shopping, picking up kids from school, going to work ... on bikes.The Guardian Bike Blog: Hey ... it's the Guardian ..

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-80223449131959896702009-08-26T07:52:00.003-04:002009-08-26T08:03:13.992-04:00

The evenings are drawing in already, and that means an end to this season's Griggstown Grind.The PFW Griggstown Grind is a regular Tuesday evening ride around the hills surrounding Belle Mead, NJ. More often or not we venture into the Sourlands or the hills bordering Rocky Hill.Just tough enough ...Thanks to Diane for getting it together every week in the summer.Maybe there'll be something

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-31002482285761442182009-08-24T20:32:00.021-04:002009-08-29T08:43:58.744-04:00

Well, it will all too soon be autumn, or the more prosaic, fall, that season of mellow fruitfulness. And even now the evenings draw in to the point where evening rides are cut short by sunset before 8.00pm/20.00hrs.The eastern seaboard of the US lacks western Europe's more northern latitude and double summer time which means late summer rides can run way past 9.00pm/21.00hrs.So we're already

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-27778920915089876562009-08-23T14:51:00.003-04:002009-08-23T14:57:27.570-04:00

Check out this morning's club ride from Cranbury, NJ, though the delights of the central New Jersey countryside - plus a slight detour.<a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nj/-cranbury/800125105169375953">PFW20090823CranburyClarksburg detour</a>&

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-46768870046664893082009-08-22T07:28:00.004-04:002009-08-22T07:36:00.191-04:00

It seems rare this year that we can actually ride the Griggstown Grinder without it raining or being washed out from the start. Well, this Tuesday's ride stayed dry and with one of the biggest turnouts of the year.There were three major climbs; Coppermine Road, Herrontown Road and Cherry Hill Road.<a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nj/belle-mead/961125064144711320"&

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-34840029347594066382009-08-20T10:06:00.008-04:002009-08-20T10:33:35.251-04:00

They say an ounce off your wheels is worth a pound off your bike.My Giant OCR c2 came with an adequate wheelset; Mavic Aksiums. But it was a revelation when I had a chance to try a set of Shimano carbon wheels. So come my birthday - thank you Linda - I was lucky enough to get a set of the latest Shimano Dura Ace tubeless carbon wheels.I've combined them with Hutchinson Intensive tubeless tyres

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-68683884817550911152009-08-14T07:03:00.007-04:002009-08-14T08:03:34.014-04:00

Over the past few months I've been able to make a number of nice upgrades/improvements which have helped me enjoy cycling more and more.One of the problems I had here was going out on club rides, going to really pretty and interesting places and then, when Linda asked if I had a nice time, I would invariably say yes, and how beautiful it was and how New Jersey is quite nice really, and then Linda

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-54869513275685920882009-08-12T06:55:00.006-04:002009-08-12T08:09:58.225-04:00

Just what is it about Tuesday evenings this year?I suppose distance lends enchantment but I don't recall last year being so full of torrential rainstorms and thunder and lightning.At least, we set off on this week's Grind without the expectation of bad weather. I had checked and the forecast predicted trouble by 10.00pm, a good hour or two after our usual finish.&

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-80123480103424517662009-08-03T20:20:00.006-04:002009-08-03T20:45:22.985-04:00

Well, last Tuesday's Griggstown Grind was a washout. Sunday was a precursor for The Great Flood. But today ... it's lovely. So I headed for Round Valley Lake.You can see the route here:<a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nj/-belle-mead/315124922500612608">Belle Mead - Round Valley Lake - Belle Mead&

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-2292102903354978542009-07-31T06:47:00.005-04:002009-07-31T07:04:40.786-04:00

When I moved to central New Jersey it was a relief to find it wasn't, as The Guardian once described it, the Essex of North America, although, admittedly, parts of it resemble a chemical works from BladeRunner.Fortunately, large parts of the state are very amenable to riding, either on-road or off-.On-line, mountainbiking is well catered for by mtnNJ.com, a forum for off-road riders with a lively

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-67827143186560093612009-07-30T16:05:00.008-04:002009-07-31T07:13:00.442-04:00

... so I'll resolve to start posting again ... yes, really.Well, time is relentlessly movin' on and today sees 57 years since I came into this world. What better way than with a bike ride which, now I've just finished it, I realise I should have made 57 miles, but is now cast at 45 plus miles.Oh well. That's my resolution for next year; a 58 mile bike ride.That's me, taking a rest in Lambertville

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-10213933434505755692009-04-27T08:12:00.005-04:002009-07-30T16:22:40.735-04:00

Set out on the longest ride of the year so far.The ride was based on Chris's loop but involved dropping down into Stockton and Lambertville.As it happened it was the hottest day of the year so far which meant the hill-climbing was exhausting.When I got home I noticed the odo was showing 62 miles. Had I realised I would have ridden around the block to get to 100km. Oh well ... what's 500m?

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-64885022483707766012009-04-01T00:01:00.008-04:002009-04-01T00:01:00.897-04:00

One of the benefits of getting around a few bicycle shows is that you get to see the latest stuff.More and more as bicycle hardware gets about as good as it can get, designers turn their efforts towards the bicycle rider/bicycle - man/machine - interface.Pedals, computers, GPS, etc., have all seen huge strides, but rarely has the most basic connection between rider and bicycle been developed.Step

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-72966739068820466702009-03-16T07:45:00.004-04:002009-03-16T07:59:31.978-04:00

Well, I managed to get out on Saturday ... about 45 miles from Etra Park Lake to New Egypt and back.All in all, I didn't feel too bad. In fact, pretty good, although I was glad to see the car park at the end. I felt a bit of a fraud. Some riders have done over 1000 miles already this year and are completing 100 miles/day in preparation for a double century ride. I'll be happy with the upcoming 5

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-22906758583578328042009-03-10T08:55:00.005-04:002009-03-16T08:00:43.324-04:00

Last weekend was very mild, so I actually got out on my bike!!!I did about 30 miles, calling in at Halter's to make them jealous, and generally feeling rather better than I thought I might.Last evening also saw me attending Princeton FreeWheelers' annual meeting. We heard a presentation from Trenton Boys' and Girls' Club who are starting a bike workshop project. I also bumped into a couple of

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-64405299150561700132009-02-05T10:37:00.005-05:002009-02-05T11:00:58.441-05:00

... the grass is riz. I wonder where the birdies iz.Well, it's still positively fffrigid here. And, I admit, I am a fair-weather cyclist, but I can't wait for warmer days to come.I am somewhat jealous of Skillsy, riding brevets in sunny - and presumably warmer - California.However, now is the time to think about winding up and checking out the bike. I have some rather nice tyres ready to fit and

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-41956718258875876342009-01-25T07:57:00.004-05:002009-01-25T08:08:33.918-05:00

Don't forget to visit my PhonoStage blog here ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-65540622403316349572009-01-24T08:33:00.008-05:002009-01-24T09:04:09.223-05:00

Hmmm ... promises ... promises ...Oh well. I did not get on with the bike on the trainer in the basement. I don't know. It just doesn't feel right.And not much chance of getting out and about ... it's been freeeezing. One morning it was -17C. Many days have risen to nowhere near 0C.Next winter I really need to consider something which hasn't really appealed until now ... spinning classes.On the

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-82059705140788254272008-11-23T10:49:00.003-05:002008-11-23T11:05:09.358-05:00

Okay ... catch up time ...What a good summer season I had on the bike. I rode maybe 150 miles/week at times, and completed two major community rides - The 5 Boro Bike Tour and The Twin Lights Ride.Now it's a bit more difficult to motivate. Today the morning temperature was -4C and is hovering at 0C at 11.00 am. I am not a cold weather person ...So I think I'm going to consider getting the trainer

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-70344591973590185442008-10-05T15:22:00.009-04:002008-10-06T08:39:47.272-04:00

Elmer, NJ, USA. Yes ... there is a place called Elmer.What is more, they run a cyclocross event there called "The Hillbilly Hustle." What is even more is, there is a genre of music called Hardcore Hillbilly. Or maybe it's just a band ... anyway ...Now, I would have remained blissfully unaware of all this had I not decided to join Jay and Chris and motored down to south New Jersey to spend a

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-2145951002704814652008-09-29T07:13:00.015-04:002008-10-12T18:43:42.279-04:00

Nice view, isn't it?Now if only it was like that on the morning of the Twin Lights Bike Ride.Of course, the weather forecast was not encouraging, but I set off early anyway.The big decision was whether to opt for the 75 mile - or 50 mile ride given the rain, slippery roads, etc.I decided to leave the decision until the last minute at the point where the routes divided about 20 miles into the

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-20149311597589113812008-09-22T15:58:00.006-04:002008-09-22T16:09:48.280-04:00

What can I say about this device?It looks as sophisticated as a high-school engineering project or some sort of mock-up before the industrial designers get their hands on it, but the Take-A-Look rear view mirror works better than any helmet fixed alternative, and to all intents and purposes can be replaced for $2.00.It takes a few moments to fix the mirror to your cycling glasses and adjust for

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-63849332585640913322008-09-21T19:17:00.010-04:002008-09-21T19:55:28.711-04:00

Due to one thing and another it's been a week or two since I last rode on road, as it were ...... And with the Twin Lights Ride looming next weekend, I really needed to put a few miles under my belt.Discretion played the better part of valour, this morning as I set out on a C+ ride from Etra Park.Well, things weren't too bad, and I rode quite strongly considering. It was nice to see a couple of

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-40784155716079125112008-09-21T07:06:00.006-04:002008-09-21T07:23:48.280-04:00

Spent an hour yesterday, bimbling around the new trail which was cut last week.I arrived at the car park on Jacques Lane, just in time to find a hunter packing his truck. There was no deer strapped to the hood at least ...Anyway, I rode into the reserve and quickly found the new trail.It's pretty good fun, although it needs a fair bit of usage and tuning yet. There was also a lot more new stuff

Alannoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-90404053384079436942008-09-14T14:44:00.008-04:002008-09-15T06:55:04.118-04:00

This Sunday saw a good turn out at the Six Mile Run Reservoir site ready to do some trail maintenance.Well, not so much maintenance as cut a whole new leisure / multi-use path through a new sector of the woods.Plenty of preliminary work had been organised by Jason Fenton, proprietor of Halter's Cycles. It says much that the powers that be gave Jay a pretty free hand to carve the route as he saw

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-81616086903055873862008-08-31T07:54:00.003-04:002008-08-31T07:58:38.889-04:00

This year has seen Park Avenue, NYC, closed at the weekends for pedestrians, cyclists, in-line skaters, skate-boarders, etc ...See some nice images here.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-62159623712933190102008-08-27T20:37:00.005-04:002008-08-28T06:56:34.966-04:00

Tuesday evenings won't be the same until next year ...Yesterday saw the last of my regular Tuesday evening rides for this season.The Griggstown Grind is a tour of the many pretty and just tough enough lanes and hills around The Sourlands.Whoever said that there is no nice countryside in New Jersey? Okay, maybe nobody actually said it, but I think it's a surprise to most people how pleasant

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-52975039897739997842008-08-26T07:13:00.005-04:002008-08-26T07:43:13.443-04:00

Of course, I should have mentioned ...Even with my recent good fortune regarding the lack of punctures - I know I'm going to regret saying that - there is still an occasional need to remove and replace tyres.I have been using a device which people either seem to love - ***** - or think is totally useless - *.Easing tyres, especially kevlar beaded ones, on and off a rim can be quite frustrating.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-14448748607613541092008-08-25T08:40:00.015-04:002008-08-28T06:56:56.104-04:00

Over the years I have been plagued with punctures here. The sides of the road are often strewn with broken glass and wire.I recall getting punctures on three consecutive rides. Pretty dismal.So naturally, I've put some thought into this and there are probably more effective solutions this has worked for me.My current road bike came equipped with Michelins which are very good tyres. However, my

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-29649322034015125332008-08-18T09:12:00.004-04:002008-08-25T10:03:57.398-04:00

Nothing apparently.Fancy watching some tandem trailer racing? A bike you row? A frameless bicycle?Take a look at this:Neat, huh?

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-64827301196388005102008-08-17T20:27:00.002-04:002008-08-17T20:31:45.735-04:00

In the end, Craig's List turned up trumps ... eBay? Wassat?I hope the new owner of my old Trek will be very happy ... he should ... it's a good bike.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-50632626402917614122008-08-14T11:01:00.003-04:002008-08-14T11:11:59.877-04:00

My Trek 1200 won't go away ...There were a couple of nibbles from Craigs List, but no takers.So now it's on eBay.Here in fact.Give it a good home.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-13362615166863129062008-08-13T16:27:00.014-04:002008-08-25T10:00:33.780-04:00

Nicole Cooke's victory in the Olympic Women's Road Race, put me in mind of two other great women riders.Beryl Burton has to be considered one of the UK's greatest ever athletes, let alone women athletes, let alone cyclists. Her wiki will tell you far more than I ever could, but in a nutshell, for a number of years some of her British achievements exceeded the men's records.Some of her records

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-18022951463187334902008-08-12T10:34:00.009-04:002008-08-13T07:23:15.155-04:00

... especially this one; Nicole Cooke, GBR.Women's Road Race Gold Beijing Olympics.Won in great style in atrocious conditions Nicole truly deserves this.A few years ago I was listening to the radio and they were doing an article about Nicole. If I recall correctly, they were interviewing Malcolm Elliott, a real hard man of British pro cycling, who was by then riding Elite/1st Cat on the British

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-72538131233911952022008-08-11T09:00:00.009-04:002008-08-11T16:31:26.650-04:00

Support your LBS - Local Bike Shop.These guys are not in it for the money. Okay, they don't give stuff away, but pretty close to it.Yes, they may cost a little more than your favourite online dealer, but generally you'll get good advice and you're more likely to get the right thing in the first place and most likely, be able to exchange it if it turns out to be not for you.These are dealers I've

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-79875440823979015912008-08-07T16:50:00.005-04:002008-08-07T17:13:15.983-04:00

Cool or what?And it's brand new!!!The Pashley Guv'nor.Puts me in mind of making something up like this from an old roadster frame, if I can get one.27" wheels, North Road bars, Brooks saddle ... compromise on a few modern yet retro-looking fittings ... neat.Get one from here - if you can afford it ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-61232867934560698802008-08-06T08:34:00.012-04:002008-08-11T16:42:01.435-04:00

Things have come a long way since my first serious road bike. If I remember correctly, my old Peugeot Champion du Monde had a 5-speed Huret rear derailleur, a Stronglight 52/42 chain-set, indeterminate brakes and Leotard pedals with Christophe clips and toe straps.Since then virtually all my bikes have been Shimano - or one of their clones - equipped, and over the years these systems have become

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-45478771123997077242008-08-02T17:04:00.010-04:002008-11-12T21:25:09.308-05:00

Here it is ... my pride and joy, the Giant OCR C2, perched on my Ultimate Bike stand. I don't know what's happened to Ultimate Bike Stands. Their website seems to have been assimilated for the last few weeks and accessories seem to be hard to source. I hope they're still up and running. This is a good bike stand. The .pdf brochure is here.Anyway, the bike is fairly bog-standard apart from the

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-33183473446150354502008-08-02T12:07:00.010-04:002008-11-12T21:25:09.766-05:00

I joined Princeton FreeWheelers' regular Friday evening ride around the Pennington - Hopewell area.I had actually tried to join this ride before, but my Garmin had suggested the wrong meeting point in Pennington on a previous occasion. Apparently, I wasn't the only one this had happened to ...Anyway, I lined up with quite a large group of local cyclists just south of Pennington. I recognised

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-23601414467057504182008-08-01T04:55:00.014-04:002008-11-12T21:25:09.893-05:00

And here it is ... my new bike; the Giant OCR C2.Bike design and materials have certainly moved on in the last few years. The frame of this bike is an alliance - it says here - of carbon fibre and aluminium - English spellings both.Certainly the bike feels very light compared to my Trek, and the ride characteristics pretty much met the received wisdom on carbon fibre frames, smooth ride, yet

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-31801097992104238342008-07-31T17:28:00.005-04:002008-11-12T21:25:10.016-05:00

You know? I love this bike ... but time moves on and I had the opportunity to get a new bike.However, this is a good bike. One of the best I have owned. Of course, the frame and forks are way better than the components. Overall though, it wasn't a bad mix.Anyway, today, I bought a replacement. More on that later.But for now ... it's farewell to my old Trek 1200.Like I said. Time moves on.See the

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-61516574564649915562008-07-25T06:13:00.005-04:002008-11-12T21:25:10.337-05:00

For the last few weeks my regular weekly ride has been the "Griggstown Grind" in and around the rather nice lanes and byways of the Sourlands Mountains of New Jersey.A cyclist could do far worse than end up in central New Jersey. It's much more attractive than you might think.Now these are mountains in the British style, ie; more like the Mendips than the Alps. But the valleys and creeks are very

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-18141912200064537182008-07-21T08:35:00.010-04:002008-11-12T21:25:10.912-05:00

As I mentioned in my previous article, on Saturday I spent a very pleasant day - although at times I really did begin to wonder - cycling through some of the prettiest scenery New Jersey has to offer.Now, back in the UK NJ has been referred to as The Essex of North America - Brits will know what I mean. But given how delightful the Delaware river countryside is, it's a bit unfair.A baker's dozen

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-17077147002011808882008-07-20T12:41:00.008-04:002008-11-12T21:25:11.358-05:00

Well, having survived this year's 5Boro Bike Tour, I'm now entered for another Bike New York event, the Twin Lights Ride, the 75 mile course ...Whether that is wise after my bike ride yesterday, 60 hilly miles around Frenchtown, NJ, with Princeton FreeWheelers, is another matter. 15 miles hanging off the back wasn't auspicious.However, it was very hilly ... and very, very hot. Close to 38c/100F.

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-49338323252306870832008-07-14T07:36:00.007-04:002008-11-12T21:25:11.805-05:00

I went and did something I haven't done for years ... spent a couple of nights under canvas at the East Coast Round of the US National Mountain Bike Series at Windham Mountain, NY.Taking place just a few days before the national championships at Mt Snow, VT, it seemed a good time for riders to either show their hand ... or perhaps just keep a straight face.Anyway, the cross-country course was a

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-23799800342139703822008-07-07T08:55:00.004-04:002008-11-12T21:25:11.897-05:00

Thank goodness for Versus TV.Imagine this ... at least three hours of le Tour live every day, plus an extensive repeat in the evening ...Better than the UK I suspect.And if you can't get VS on cable/satellite you can still watch online.Cool, huh?

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-32531531744458312072008-07-05T09:01:00.005-04:002008-11-12T21:25:12.214-05:00

Hang anyone's privacy concerns ... try Google's Tour de France Street View to recce the tour route.Click here ...

Alannoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670336851836366750.post-67821374649182931132008-07-04T11:42:00.003-04:002008-07-04T11:53:48.220-04:00

Well, I've done a few miles over the last ten days or so; maybe 100.Not much to report, although my legs did ache on my last ride. However, my average ride is now between 30 and 40 miles at what Princeton FreeWheelers calls C+ pace.We got caught up by a B pace group on the last ride. After the initial rush as they caught up it wasn't too difficult to keep with them, but I think it will be a while

Alannoreply@blogger.com0